This review is for Dr. Elmassian only, not his staff! The ladies in the front are wonderful, so is the lady who does the cleaning as well as the other staff but my direct experience with Dr. Elmassian was awful for two reasons. One, after swabbing the numbing agent in my mouth Dr. Elmassian immediately injected me with the large needle of the anesthetic. IT HURT LIKE HELL! Typically dentists wait at least 1 minute before they use a needle on their patients after the inside of the mouth is swabbed. It was awful but he didn't seem to care that I was almost screaming and moaning in agony. Then while he did my procedure he talked very unprofessionally to his young female assistant who clearly was uncomfortable and laughing nervously throughout Dr. Elmassian's gossip about other people. She tried her best to act interested. I think Dr. Elmassian is clueless to a fact of life that Karma applies to everyone. Anyway, I will never go back there. Terrible experience! read more

I have been seeing Dr. Elmassian and his wonderful staff for years, and I wanted to share about he is an artiste, technically so skilled with his dental instruments. I rarely leave in pain, always the right amount of local anesthesia, and did I mention the staff is wonderful? Highly recommended. read more

I have paid thousands in dental bills reversing what this horrible dentist did to me. Don't see this dentist. Read the other reviews.

Dr. Elmassian is the best dentist around, without question. He is very gentle and takes the time to get to know his patients so as to make us comfortable and relaxed while we are in his care. I have been a patient of his since I moved home from college in 2013. I needed two veneers and Dr. Elmassian hooked it up. They look completely natural-- people don't even know I have them unless I tell them. His staff are very warm and welcoming and you will certainly have a pleasant experience beginning the very moment you walk into the office. Thank God for Dr. Elmassian. Look no further--It gets no better than him! I have included a picture of my teeth that I took within an hour of getting two veneers! read more

Joseph Elmassian, DDS - General Dentistry Near Me - Pasadena, California

Ethical and conservative in treatment planning. Highly recommend. Dr. Elmassian and his whole team have restored my faith in dentistry and given me hope I won't lose all my money on my mouth (at least not yet). read more

Have been going to see him for many years. Overall a very solid dentist for LA. However I was recently in Mexico and we decided to stop in to see if we could get the crown work and other work done that needed to be refereed out. That experience really opened my eyes. First, the dentist in Mexico has state of the art x-ray equipment where they don't have to jam plastic inserts into your mouth. They take an x-ray with a handheld device which is sent to the laptop. Much lower radiation that the older X-rays used here. Second, they had 3d imaging which mapped out and showed all the teeth and mouth In full detail. They found that the $1850 in work I was quoted was not needed. I only needed $360 in work which included a cleaning and X-rays. I saved $1490. Dentals practices in Mexico seem to be light years ahead of the US. With that said, Dr Elmassian is still a good dentist and a good choice. He didn't quote out the $1850 - another dentist he referred us to did. I am just disappointed I almost spent an additional $1490 when it was not needed. Overall he is a good choice. I am just amazed at how far ahead dental offices are in Mexico. Why am I jamming super uncomfortable inserts into my mouth for X-rays that are literally like a torture session when they have handheld X-rays machines? Why do US dentists still use X-rays that look like they are from world war 2 when there is full composite color imaging that shows you everything going on And none of this stuff is expensive! read more

I love my new dentist, but forgot to mention the front office how caring and excellent workers, sorry I forgot to mention work manners you know when you have good workers then you are safe with your doctor. A good office means you have the right dentist. read more

I have to say, this experience has caused me to doubt the quality of dentists, in general. I read the negative reviews about Dr Elmassian being arrogant but decided to still give him a chance since his office was in the area. My rating (2/5) is based on my overall experience. The woman who cleaned my teeth and took my XRays was an absolute charm who was professional, kind, and delicate. My review, however is based on the dentist, Dr Elmassian. Dr Elmassian came in knowing I had pain from a previous dentist who had added too much filling in my molars, causing my bite to activate a sharp pain in the nerve. He kept making me feel inept for not knowing their (dentist) terms when I was trying to express where the pain was coming from, when it started, and how it felt when I bit down. When I attempted to explain that a previous dentist had added, then removed filler upon two visits, his response was, "when a dentist as good as I am, that's been doing this for 45-years..." At no point did he take my pain and what I knew into consideration. I had no cavities, no "cracked teeth," or anything else clearly indicating to him that I have cause for the pain I was feeling. Instead of listening to me, he tried to lure me into purchasing $450 night guards. I was reluctant because as I waiting in the exam room, I overheard him resorting to the same $450 night guards to another patient. In my opinion, a good dentist would listen to his patient and work together to figure out a solution instead of raising his voice to shut them up. I'm glad I rejected their attempt in a follow-up appointment right then and there. I'm read more

Grew people , great atmosphere, expertise and confidence goes a long with me , I feel very comfortable under his hand !

My coworker recommended Dr. Elmassian and he is absolutely great. Him and his staff made me feel very comfortable even though it's been a while since I've been to the dentist and immediately fixed the issue of my crown. Sherry in the front office was so helpful and got me in asap when I called for upper left jaw pain. Yami was really informative after I got my temp crown placed. Excited to be a patient here :) read more

Joseph Elmassian, DDS - Before- root canal, no crown - General Dentistry Near Me - Pasadena, California

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I had 4 cavities filled today, and all the staff were extremely nice and caring towards me. Im definitely coming back!

I went it for my regular cleaning. The dental hygienist was gentle and friendly, I'm looking forward to coming back.

Best dentist I've ever had. Period. Could not recommend him more highly. Competent, intelligent, kind, and a great staff.

Like one of the previous reviewers, I had put off seeing a dentist for over a decade. My teeth were in terrible shape and I had zero clue what work I needed. Dr Elmassian never once made me feel bad about my negligence. It took more than one trip (I needed implants amongst all the other work) but before I knew it, I had beautiful teeth again! It literally made me look ten years younger. Please, everyone, go see Dr Elmassian before you wind up with giant horsey veneers that look like mouth guards. Also notable is the lovely staff. I chipped a tooth (my own fault!) last week on a Thursday and called in to see if the Dr could fix it. Sherry scheduled me for the following Monday. I was already pretty happy to get an appointment that close but let Sherry know I'd be interested in something sooner if it became available. I say that every time I make any doctors appointment. Nothing ever comes of it. But Sherry actually remembered and took the time to call me. I slipped in and out on Friday afternoon and didn't have to spend the weekend looking like that MAD magazine kid. I've also had to call for (what I thought was) an emergency. They told me to come right away! And I've never once had to wait longer than 2 minutes. I would go on and on about how good a dentist Dr Elmassian is but the photos make my point for me. 10/10 for Dentistry 12/10 for Dad jokes read more

I couldn't be happier with Dr. Elmassian. I've been to a lot of dentists and haven't found anyone as caring and competent. Dental appointments are no longer a stressful experience. read more

My father and I have been going to see Joe for close to a decade, zero complaints. They are the most proffesional dental office we have ever been to, he has also referred me to 2 specialists who have done quality work on my teeth. Thank you young Joseph. read more

Dr. Elmassian is the best dentist I have ever had. I was so ashamed of my teeth for so long. I had put off seeing a dentist for decades as I knew I needed so much dental work and I didn't know where to start. I had so many questions that overwhelmed me including what type of dental work I would need (veneers, implants, crowns, dentures), how much would it cost, whom could I trust and most importantly, how much would it hurt. I actually wondered if dentures would be the best as I was so afraid of dentists, how much dental work I needed and the cost. I yelped cosmetic dentists and Dr. Elmassian was one of the only dentists who had so many 5-star reviews. I read all the reviews of both his downtown and Pasadena offices and, based on the Yelp reviews, made an appointment with him. He explained in detail what type of dental work I would need and how much it would cost. He worked with my insurance company and my income so that I could afford his brilliant work and a full mouth restoration. It was a very extensive process that included eighteen porcelain crowns, teeth bleaching, teeth sanding, gum laser treatments, root scaling, replacing wisdom teeth amalgam fillings, pulling partially erupted wisdom teeth and so much more. The process was very extensive and Dr. Elmassian came in on four of his Saturday days off to see me for six hours each appointment in addition to numerous regular appointments over the course of two months. For the first time in my life, I am no longer ashamed of my teeth or my smile. I thank Dr. Elmassian for his masterful work, compassion, caring, honesty, professionalism and love. read more

Joseph Elmassian, DDS - Before Elmassian - General Dentistry Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Dr. Joe has been my dentist for more than three decades and he and his staff never disappoint. From routine cleaning to major dental repairs, I can ALWAYS count on courteous and efficient care. Most recently, I had a chipped tooth and he got me in next day due to a cancellation. The results are perfect. No one would know where the chip was. Thank you for the entire team! read more

No words can express the gratitude I feel towards Dr. Joe! What a phenomenal specialist in addition to being a good human. Had an emergency with my niece where she broke two of her front teeth exposing the nerve; (she's 12 years old). The office staff was very kind and was able to accommodate a same day root cana appointment in a Saturday afternoon. Dr. Joe's bedside manner is kind, caring and at the same time superbly professional! Thanks Dr. Joe and staff! read more

I have been a patient of Dr. Elmassian for over 25 years. I appreciate his genuine passion for wanting the best dental health for his patients, his skills, and his knowledge in his areas of expertise in the dental field. I've felt very comfortable referring friends and family to him because I know that he will take very good care of them and will be able to address whatever dental issues they're having. If you're looking for a new dentist, I would definitely recommend consulting with him. read more

Joseph Elmassian, DDS - General Dentistry Near Me - Pasadena, California

Uncomfortable experience. I went here for a normal check up and with my mouth open [unable to chime in] the doctor and his assistant kept gossiping! Everything to family members, other patients, etc. Will not be coming back here again read more

I started going to Dr. Elmassian late last year after feeling neglected by my prior dentist. He is a true professional that takes care of his patients with compassion. He took care of my teeth and addressed any concerns I had. I also appreciate that I am always in the chair right at my appointment time so I'm in and out promptly. I've been to both his downtown and Pasadena office and it's been the same experience. I have already recommended him to several of my friends & family. read more

The best dentist I've ever had. This says a lot because I am very particular about my teeth. I have a built-in retainer on the back of my bottom teeth, and it's very difficult to clean. Previously, I've had dentists who have ignored my retainer area and let plaque build up. In addition, I have receding gum lines that went unnoticed until recently, so I am in need of a dentist who can cater to my various needs. Dr. Elmassian is very meticulous and even noticed the shortcomings of my gum graft. He said that my gum line isn't as thick as it should be after a gum graft. I appreciated the honesty because my previous dentists did not comment on my mediocre gum graft. Then Dr. Elmassian took out a mirror and showed me the visible capillaries in my gums. One should not be able to see capillaries in healthy, thick gums. Not only is Dr. Elmassian very knowledgeable, he is also very personable. We had a great conversation about education policy, which is something that I care very much about. :) I'll be back in 6 months! read more

Been a patient for 3+ years. Love his energy and the way he accommodates my dental fears.

First off let me start by admitting I use Yelp all the time for advice on most things.. But I almost never take the time to post. Terrible, I know. In fact this is how I found Dr. Elmassian after moving to Pasadena from San Diego! Immediately when you walk in you feel welcome, which is quite different than many other doctors offices I've been to. And trust me, Im a bit of a gypsy and have lived all over the world... Everyone is so friendly and overall just happy to be there - you can tell they genuinely love their jobs! Having gone three times now, for vanities, cracked tooth, and a bit of cosmetics I can tell you that Dr. Elmassian is the BEST COSMETIC DENTIST in LA.. Heck he's the *best dentist* overall!! Every bit of my procedures were pain free (and thanks for turning up that nitrous Charlene!) and quick. I never once felt uncomfortable in the least bit. He recommended a bit of gum lasering (I'm sure there's a technical word for that) because I had ground my teeth down to nothing. They looked like child's teeth!! After the quick, painless 5 min process I am SO IMPRESSED with my smile!!! Amazing!! The staff go out of their way to see if there is anything at all you need, they know your name, and are just real, normal people. Such a refreshing change. I've since referred my boyfriend and he agrees that these dentist trips are the most pleasant by far. I would absolutely recommend Dr. Elmassian and his staff to anyone and welcome any questions. Go! Go now!! read more

Joseph Elmassian, DDS - Before and after a 5 min procedure to push back my gums and expose more tooth. Making me look like I have an adult smile! - General Dentistry Near Me - Pasadena, California

Yesterday, I just completed my 4th or 5th visit to this office. All visits thus far have been for routine cleanings or scalings. I have been nothing but pleased. The hygienists and Dr. Elmassian have been very friendly. Of course, with what I have had done, I deal mostly with the hygienists. Frankly, the less I see Dr. Elmassian the better. (That means less problems with my teeth) :-) I am pleased with the work that has been done. It can be a little tough to get in at a preferred time; however, if you are patient it will work out. I am always seen at or very close to my appointment time. Finally, I even had an insurance issue the first half of 2016, and they allowed my account balance to pend for several months while I worked the issue out. I really appreciated that. I would definitely recommend this office to a friend. read more

Upon the recommendation of my dear friend, I consulted Dr. Elmassian, for my comprehensive cosmetic dental work. After meeting him I felt comfortable and confident that he would restore my smile. In May of 2014, he began the process... during the months that followed he took several impressions to check the functionality of my overall bite and how my lower teeth and new, temporary upper teeth were aligning. Carefully, like an artist he and his staff made any necessary adjustments before the permanents were made. I'm so happy I chose Dr. Elmassian for my dental surgery! His fees are more than reasonable. His decades of experience and meticulous manner is evident upon the first moment you're in his care. Procedures most dentist need to refer out (such as laser gum surgery) he performs. I recommend consulting Dr. Elmassian if your considering a new smile from a seasoned professional. Rose read more

I have had bad experiences in the past with Dentists, Elmassian is fantastic! I will never say I enjoy Dentists but Elmassian visits are "enjoyable", easy and makes me feel at ease which I really appreciate. read more

I have been going to Dr Elmassian for a few years now. Today, I went for another routine dental check-up and cleaning. I have never had any problems with him or his office staff, and they usually always try their best to provide me with appointment slots that work best with my schedule. It's not an easy task to do, considering that Dr Elmassian is a pretty good dentist and he books up fast with patients. But they really try their best. I have to give particular kudos to Mindy, one of the receptionists who really went the extra mile to help me out when I had major schedule conflicts. I'm not completely certain if some of his employees who work on my teeth might be dental hygienists. Or if they are mainly dental technicians. But for the most part, all of them have been very professional, courteous, and thorough. They will tell me right away if I need to work better on flossing, brushing, or both. Today, his employee, Raquel, was really good about telling me that I need to work on brushing the inner part of my back molars because the plaque buildup in those areas can eventually turn into tartar. For today's visit and my previous visit, Dr Elmassian came in to check my teeth and gums after his employee finished my dental cleaning. Because I didn't have any major problems on these 2 visits, he didn't spend too much time and said that I was ok. However, I remember one year when I had major tea and coffee stains on my teeth that made my teeth look really yellow. In addition, my gums were so receded that I even had gingivitis and periodontal disease. He was really thorough and professionally cleaned my teeth so that they were white again. And he was really blunt and direct and told me that I really needed to take better care of myself and brush and floss better. I can see how some of his customers might feel like this is rude and might be offended by this feedback. But I actually appreciated his candidness because it forced me to become more vigilant about my dental hygiene. Since it can be extremely difficult to find a good dentist, I would recommend him! read more

Dr. Elmassian and his staff have been just wonderful. Prior to coming here I had undergone quite a bit of dental work and wanted to keep up my cleanings. I love Emily my hygienist she takes such beautiful care of my mouth and she never hurts me. Sherry is always wonderful to remind me of my appointments and change them when I need them . Dr. Elmassian is very kind, always a smile and a good word. I am so happy I found Dr. Elmassian's office. When I originally came it was because I needed Saturdays. I always booked a year in advance with Emily because she's so wonderful I can't imagine going anywhere else. read more

Dr. Elmassian is by far the best dentists I have ever encountered. He is gentle, understanding and truly cares for his patients. Since moving to Altadena, I took a chance on him over a year ago thanks to Yelp. Last December I was hesitant to remove my wisdom tooth prior to traveling. He assured me I would have little to minimal swelling and discomfort. Literally a few hours after the extraction, I had no pain... zero. That's how awesome he is. Emily, the hygienist is a delight too! She's a pleasant conversationalist and kind. I enjoy my visits with her as well. Overall - the best dental care you can get in LA county with super friendly receptionists. It doesn't get better than that. read more

I have been a patient for about 4 years, now a former patient. Like other reviewers at some point I bought a night guard that I probably don't really need (and haven't used) but that is not the reason for me leaving a negative review. Overall the experience was fine, my former hygienist was great; however, on my last visit I had a new hygienist who was totally unprofessional. She arrived in the office 15 minutes after my appointment time, was rushed and way too casual in conversation even using casual profane language that is in appropriate in that setting. I went back recently and again, unknowingly, was scheduled with that same hygienist. After 10 minutes I asked the receptionist if my hygienist had arrive yet? "No, but she is on the way." I asked who it was and turns out the same from last time, I immediately left and am not returning. Fool my once shame on you, fool my twice shame on me. That individual, I believe, is related to Dr. Elmassian so I don't expect anything to change causing me to now look elsewhere for dental care which I do so reluctantly because this was a convenient and reliable option for me. read more

Dr. Elmassian and the entire staff are the BEST around. He fit me in to get a mandatory cap replacement on multiple occasions, despite his schedule being fully booked. His procedures are thorough and complete, making my teeth look and feel much better than I ever thought possible. There is no shenanigans when it comes to his recommendations and what needs to get done. It's nice to get a straightforward answer and not have to worry about unnecessary procedures or charges. The hygienists are top notch as well. Stains removed and gums feeling strong afterwards. Thanks to the whole team! read more

Have been visiting Dr. Elmassian since I was a child, still the best there is. Professional and easy going, a great dentist.

Most arrogant, greedy & flat out rude dentist I have ever met. My friends and were talking about a dentist referral, when she told me about the same issue she had with dentist Elmassian, I decided to write this Yelp. I jow go to another dentist in Pasadena on Foothill read more

WHAT AN ANGEL. I have always had a fear of the dentist so I DREAD going. After reading his yelp reviews I had a great feeling about Dr. Elmassian & man was that feeling correct. He immediately won me over with his witty humour, knowledge and good cheer. His experience is unparalleled & he answered all my questions with patience. The ladies working at the desk are amazing & sweet. I thought it was so beautiful & spoke volumes about Dr. Elmassian that he walked one of his employees down the aisle at her wedding. You can tell how good of a man he is by how happy his employees are & how long they've all been working for him. I've found my dentist for life, he rocks. read more

Dr. Elmassian is an amazing dentist with incredible skills. I loved my experience in his office. He gave me a very useful and detailed explanation for my dental issues and treatment plans. It was very easy to schedule for my 4 fillings and Dr. Elmassian did a great job, in addition he was very generous with offering me a free fixation for my front tooth, it all says that he does care very much for his clients health and beauty. He perfected my smile by fixing my upper chipped tooth, and I'm very thankful for his incredible help! read more

Amazing dentist ! Very confident in what he does and doesn't waste your time. Office is always busy downfall but all worth it

I don't know where to start with my review for Dr. Elmassian. I guess I can start by saying that five stars isn't enough credit for his quality of work. I had been having a lot of trouble with one of my front teeth for a few years and it was a true nightmare. I was hesitant with every dentist I went to when I had to get work done because of all my previous experiences but I have to say Dr. Elmassian changed that. Dr. Elmassian and his team were so caring and accommodating I couldn't help but give them my 100% trust! I have to say that trust paid off because my front tooth looks like never before! I had to get a crown and the crown is a perfect match with all of my other teeth! And when I say perfect I mean PERFECT! I was shocked and blown away by his work. All that I have left to say now is THANK YOU to Dr. Elmassian and his team! He is one great dentist! read more

I have been to Dr. Joe's office for two cleanings now and I will never go to another dentist in LA. Both him and his staff are very friendly and I highly recommend going there if you're looking for a dentist in the area. I have a bit of a commute to his office but it is well worth it. The staff at the front got me checked in quickly and the wait was short. Both times the hygienist really got in there and cleaned my teeth very well. I usually hate making dentist appointments but now that I have found a great dentist I don't mind doing my cleaning twice a year. FYI, he also has a downtown LA office! read more